Saguaro took the lead for good with 1:21 remaining in the game on a 3-yard run by junior quarterback Luke Rubenzer. Rubenzer was also 22-of-28 passing for 320 yards, three touchdowns and one interception. He also carried the ball 15 times for 152 yards and two scores.

Both teams moved the ball at will throughout the contest, combining for 975 yards of total offense; 545 for Saguaro, 430 for Thunderbird. There were only three punts in the game, all by Thunderbird.

The game featured seven lead changes, most of which came in the second half.

Thunderbird missed a few opportunities by missing an extra point, failing to convert a two-point conversion, and having an extra point blocked.

Thunderbird held a 39-36 lead, when Saguaro lined up to attempt a game-tying field goal with just over five minutes remaining. Thunderbird senior Ben Freeman slipped around the protection and blocked Saguaro senior Garrett Ball's kick. Saguaro promptly forced a three-and-out on the next possession.

Thunderbird senior running back Kani Benoit rushed for 205 yards on 24 carries with three touchdowns.

Saguaro head coach Jason Mohns earned his first victory with Saguaro. Last year he served as offensive coordinator.

"Last week was gut-wrenching. I don't think I would have been able to sleep if we had lost tonight," Mohns said.

Even with the first victory of the year, Mohns said he sees room for improvement.

"We're not playing good defense," Mohns said. "We'll talk about Saguaro being back when we make some stops."